Jan 20 2017
The University of Twente in The Netherlands will investigate novel ways to improve the security for Internet of Things applications. The European project SUCCESS provides Dr. Marielle Stoelinga and Dr. Stefano Schivo a grant to carry out this research.
You can operate your heating system and your lights using apps, or keep an eye on bodily functions using a smartwatch. Internet of Things can be found in almost every home or organization.
“These types of gadgets are not just useful for consumers, but hackers and burglars also enjoy using them to their advantage”, explains UT-researcher Marielle Stoelinga. She receives a grant to carry out research on better security for Internet of Things applications.
“Since more and more appliances are interconnected online, a smart TV with poor security can be used for example to break into your computer. Even medical information can become accessible.”
Ms Stoelinga works with universities and hospitals in France and England to improve Internet of Things security. The researchers are developing a systematic approach to Internet of Things security and are also focusing on the role of the user in improving security.
Security in hospitals
Hospitals are an important area of application. According to Ms Stoelinga: “The Internet of Things has enormous potential in terms of long-distance monitoring of patients. This reduces the number of unnecessary visits to the hospital, for example to get their blood pressure checked. There are privacy risks involved though. We also see that measures that are intended to increase safety, such as passwords and firewalls, sometimes limit the availability of data. Imagine the following scenario: a patient is admitted to accident and emergency. Time is of the essence, so their medical information has to be available immediately. But what was the password again? Or why is that poorly configurated firewall blocking important notifications? These issues can have a significant impact on the availability of medical information.”
The focus of the research includes devising a system for patients with Alzheimer’s disease to take blood measurements at home, in order to determine if the illness is progressing.